In this comprehensive guide, we present the leading actigraphy watches of 2025, encompassing both classic models and the latest innovations. These devices are essential tools for researchers and clinicians aiming to monitor and analyze physical activity and sleep patterns accurately.

Access our detailed comparison sheet with full pricing and features of all available models.

Top Actigraphy Watches for Research in 2025

1. Fibion Helix

The Fibion Helix is a unique actigraphy device that combines the convenience of consumer wristbands with advanced heart rate sensors and research-grade accuracy and control.

• Sensors:
  • 3-axis accelerometer.
  • Patented optical sensor for heart rate and heart rate variability.
• Data Access:
  • Provides raw data access for detailed analysis.
  • Includes a well-documented SDK and API for seamless integration.
• Participant App:
  • Features a fully integrated participant app for enhanced user engagement.
• Applications:
  • Offers automatically calculated outcome metrics for sleep, recovery, physical activity, training, and heart rate training zones.

Pros:

• Convenient and user-friendly design.
• Affordable with customizable features.
• High accuracy suitable for research settings.

Cons:

• Lacks a display for real-time feedback.
• Does not measure ambient light.

2. Fibion SENS

The Fibion SENS offers unrivaled battery life and convenience for data collection. With an optional wrist adapter, it can be comfortably worn on the wrist.

• Key Features:
  • 22-week battery life ensures minimal participant interaction.
  • Fully waterproof, allowing for continuous use in diverse environments.
  • 3-axis accelerometer providing raw acceleration data for detailed analysis.
• Applications:
  • Ideal for longitudinal studies requiring extended measurement periods.
  • Suitable for research focusing on physical activity and sedentary behavior analysis over time.

Pros:

• Exceptionally easy to use for both participants and researchers.
• Streamlines data collection with extended battery life and cloud integration.
• Reliable and robust for long-term data acquisition.

Cons:

• Measures only acceleration, without additional physiological signals.

3. ActiGraph LEAP

The ActiGraph LEAP is a multisensor wearable device designed exclusively for wrist wear.

• Sensors:
  • 3-axis accelerometer.
  • Photoplethysmography (PPG).
  • Skin temperature sensor.
  • Barometer.
  • Gyroscope.
  • Microphone.

Pros:

• Offers a wide range of physiological and environmental measurements.
• Equipped with a display for real-time feedback.

Cons:

• Designed solely for wrist wear, limiting placement options.
• Relatively expensive device and software.
• Additional fees may apply for measuring signals beyond acceleration.

4. Condor Instruments ActTrust2

The ActTrust2 by Condor Instruments is an actigraphy device equipped with multiple sensors to enhance data collection.

• Sensors:
  • 3-axis accelerometer.
  • Light exposure sensor.
  • Temperature sensor.

Pros:

• Effectively measures light exposure, beneficial for circadian rhythm studies.
• Provides comprehensive data for sleep and activity monitoring.

Cons:

• The device is relatively large, which may affect comfort and aesthetics.
• Limited to specific wear locations, potentially reducing versatility.

5. Fibion Flash

The Fibion Flash is a fully customizable and versatile actigraphy tool designed to meet diverse research needs. It can be worn on the wrist as an actigraphy device or on the chest for ECG, heart rate, and heart rate variability (HRV) measurements.

• Sensors:
  • 6-axis motion sensor (accelerometer and gyroscope).
  • ECG sensor for precise heart rate and HRV monitoring.
• Data Access:
  • Provides raw data access for in-depth analysis.
  • Offers fully customizable measurement specifications.
  • Features a robust and well-documented SDK and API for seamless integration.
• Applications:
  • Suitable for a wide range of studies, including physical activity monitoring, cardiovascular health assessments, and biomechanical research.

Pros:

• Highly versatile for both wrist- and chest-based measurements.
• Fully customizable to suit specific research requirements.
• Affordable compared to similar devices with ECG and HRV capabilities.

Cons:

• As a versatile tool, it might not offer the same streamlined usability as single-purpose devices.
• Requires technical expertise to fully leverage its customization capabilities.

6. GENEActiv

he GENEActiv is a reliable device with multiple features tailored for research use.

Sensors:

• 3-axis accelerometer.
• Light exposure sensor.

Pros:

• Measures light exposure, a valuable feature for circadian rhythm studies.
• Attractive watch-like design suitable for long-term wear.

Cons:

• Relatively high price compared to simpler trackers.
• Not designed to include heart rate or HRV monitoring capabilities.

Conclusion

Selecting the appropriate actigraphy watch is crucial for obtaining accurate and reliable data in research and clinical settings. Each of the devices listed offers unique features catering to various study requirements.

Access our comprehensive comparison sheet with detailed pricing and features for all major actigraphy watches.

Call to Action

📅 Planning research measuring physical activity, sedentary behavior, and sleep? For a chat with our accelerometer and wearable expert, book a video call with Dr. Miriam Cabrita, or request a quote.

Disclaimer

The brand names and product names mentioned in this article, including ActiGraph, Condor Instruments, and GENEActiv, along with their associated device models and software platforms, are trademarks of their respective owners. Our use of these names does not imply ownership, endorsement, or affiliation with these brands. This article is intended solely for informational purposes and provides an overview of these devices based on publicly available information.

We make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, regarding the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability of the information provided herein about non-Fibion products. Specifications and features of these products are subject to change and may vary depending on product updates or other factors. For the most accurate and up-to-date specifications, please refer to the respective official websites of these brands. Any reliance you place on the information in this article is strictly at your own risk.

All trademarks and registered trademarks mentioned herein belong to their respective owners.